Volker Türk @DU: 'No repetition, no going back. You must draw a clear line in the stand'
UNB
Publish: 30 Oct 2024, 11:39 AM
Dhaka,
Oct 29 (UNB) - United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk
has said citizens must be able to participate in democratic governance and have
a real say in decision-making.
While delivering his
speech at a programme in Dhaka University on Tuesday, he also said that
"free and fair" elections require an environment where freedom of
expression, association and peaceful assembly are respected.
This is an opportunity
for inclusive, sustainable development policies that benefit everyone, Turk
said.
He said inequality,
cycles of revenge and retribution, marginalization, corruption, and gross human
rights violations must be consigned to the past.
"There must be no
repetition, no going back. The present and future belong to equality, to
justice," Turk said, adding that Bangladesh is a rich tapestry of promise,
culture, and creativity.
The UN human rights
chief said it is full of potential and ideas and justifiable demands for a
better present and a brighter future and to realise that potential, Bangladesh
must draw a clear line in the sand.
"I take inspiration
from your commitment to democracy and human rights. Keep it at the forefront of
your struggle and lives. I stand together with all of you, as you look to build
a more equal, more inclusive, and more just Bangladesh for all," Turk
said.
The students and faculty
of Dhaka University have a long, rich history of activism - mobilising
powerfully over the past 80 years for independence, freedom of expression and
language rights, for equal representation - and against military rule.
"And now, for
democracy, accountability, and equality. As your distinguished Professor,
Serajul Islam Chowdhury, once observed, this university has encouraged people
to not only dream about freedom and equality, but to take action to move that
dream closer to reality," he said.
Together with other
students from both private and public universities, from madrasahs, colleges
and schools, together with people from across the country, Turk said, they have
shown great courage in standing up for justice and equality for the people of
Bangladesh.
"So I am truly
honoured to be speaking here today - at a pivotal time, and in a symbolic
place. And I am humbled and inspired by your stories of bravery, resilience,
solidarity, and commitment to human rights," said the UN human rights
chief.
Young people,
everywhere, are facing a tumultuous world, filled with deepening inequality and
ongoing economic crises and uncertainty.
"Your present and
future are being threatened by climate chaos that is becoming more destructive
and ferocious every day. In Bangladesh, you know this better than most,"
Turk said.
He said Bangladesh now
has an historic opportunity to renew and revitalise a genuine democracy.
"To deliver deep
reform. To start a process of truth, justice and healing. To ensure that the
benefits of development are enjoyed by all people. And to rebuild your country
on a foundation of equality - where every voice is heard and valued,
irrespective of class, gender, race, political ideology or religion," Turk
said.
The pursuit of justice
must also go beyond trials of those responsible, and address the root causes to
achieve the broader social transformation to which you aspire, he said, adding
that they need to look forward, not only backwards.
Such an approach should
begin with a broad-based national dialogue to design a pathway towards truth,
accountability, reparation, and national healing, Turk said.
"It must be
inclusive and centered on survivors and victims. Let me also stress that
psychosocial support is crucial following the trauma that many of you, your
fellow students and loved ones have experienced, and I will be urging the
international community to support you in this healing process," he
mentioned.
Second, Turk said, at a
broader level, Bangladesh has an important opportunity to confront longstanding
human rights violations, rebuild an open, diverse and tolerant civic space, and
reform key State institutions.
"This is essential
to rebuild social cohesion, restore trust in institutions and ensure such abuse
of power can never happen again," he said.
Bangladesh will have to
grapple with decades of divisive politics that have not served its people well,
Turk said, adding that a human rights approach calls for a level playing field
that enables all political parties to participate freely.
END/UNB/MK//ssk